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"First Melancholy, Then The Night Stretch" is the second solo album from pianist/drummer/composer Rick Cutler. Cutler is an extremely versatile musician with a vast and diverse background that includes classical studies at Juilliard; studies with Chick Corea; touring with a variety of artists that include the late Gregory Hines, Gloria Gaynor, and Liza Minelli (currently); performances in Broadway productions of Hair and The Wiz; and composing for television. Cutler's list of accomplishments and references could go on for pages, so I mention only a few to give you an idea of how versatile he is. With such a rich history, it is no wonder that his original music goes in so many directions. Despite the diversity of the eighteen piano solos, this album holds together seamlessly and never ceases to amaze. The piano sound is flawless - clear without being brittle or too bright, warm, and a rewarding listening experience for many, many returns.

"First Melancholy, Then The Night Stretch" begins with "Isle of Words Forgotten," an elegant and somewhat mysterious reflection that flows smoothly and effortlessly without revealing too much. "Gentle Nightmares" suggests a dichotomy, with the left hand presenting a gentle rhythm that propels the piece while the right hand is more "angular" and edgy - one of my favorites. "Charlotte's Roads Before Her" has a slow, lyrical melody and rubato tempo that suggests tentatively moving forward, making choices and overcoming fears. Each section of the "Alien Landscape" trilogy appears in a different part of the album, with piano accompanied by the sound of bitter wind, evoking images of desolation and foreboding - very effective!Read more ›

Rick Cutler's latest collection of piano instrumentals is a moody and evocative affair worthy of the album's equally atmospheric title and cover.

The 18 tracks contained on the CD are very cinematic in feel, which should come as no surprise since Cutler writes and performs music for film and television. He also served as Gregory Hines's keyboardist and musical director for 18 years and currently tours as Liza Minnelli's drummer, and has also worked with scores of other notable artists in between, giving Cutler an edge as a brilliant composer and a seasoned musician.

Cutler is a crafty tunesmith, always drawing you in with captivating hooks, sometimes giving you what you anticipate, and other times taking you in unexpected directions, yet leaving you musically satisfied. The compositions, which include tips of the hat to such classical and jazz influences as Debussy and McCoy Tyner, are subtle and understated and function as a sort of tonic for the psyche.

Interspersed throughout the album are three "Alien Landscapes" that exemplify Cutler's simultaneously adventurous and eerie sensibilities. With the CD as a whole, Cutler has definitely cultivated an artistically and intellectually stimulating sonic landscape for inner reflection and deep reverie.